The Detroit Lions capped off a stellar regular season with a 15-2 record, claiming the NFC North title and the conference’s No. 1 seed. After a dominant 31-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 18, the Lions secured a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
While Detroit’s roster is filled with stars, defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike has quietly emerged as a key contributor. The 26-year-old played in 16 games, starting 10, and became one of the team’s most reliable defensive linemen.
Set to hit free agency this offseason, Onwuzurike could be on the move. Pro Football Focus analyst Bradley Locker predicts he could sign with the Philadelphia Eagles if the Lions fail to retain him.
“Philadelphia has depth at both edge rusher and interior defender, and they’ll likely add more in the draft,” Locker wrote. “But bringing in another defensive lineman wouldn’t hurt. Onwuzurike had the best season of his career and would fit well alongside Jalen Carter and Moro Ojomo if the Eagles lose Milton Williams.”
Onwuzurike recorded 1.5 sacks, 45 quarterback pressures, 18 defensive stops, and earned a solid 69.4 PFF grade in 2024. The 2021 second-round pick would bring talent and consistency to an Eagles defensive line in need of interior reinforcements.
The Lions face uncertainty at defensive tackle heading into the offseason. Alim McNeill is recovering from a season-ending ACL injury, and D.J. Reader is nearing the end of his contract as he approaches free agency next year. Retaining Onwuzurike should be a priority for general manager Brad Holmes, but if he departs, Philadelphia could be a compelling landing spot for the young defender.
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